Perspective: Richard Nelson advocates for disregarding political animosity and emphasizing shared American values

In the heart of 2024, the American flag continues to stand as a powerful symbol of freedom, justice, and national unity. With nearly 35 million green card applications pending, the future of this nation's diversity and inclusivity remains a significant focus [1].

This symbol's roots trace back to the country's founding, its design reflecting key ideals and the growth of the United States. The 13 stripes, a nod to the original 13 colonies, symbolize the birth of the nation and its foundational purity and innocence [2]. The 50 stars, added as new states joined the union, illustrate the expanding union and the perpetuation of the nation’s democratic principles [2].

The colours themselves possess distinct meanings: red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white denotes purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice—core American values underscoring liberty and fairness [2]. The flag’s evolution, from a 13-star and stripe banner in 1777 to the current 50-star version since 1960, mirrors the country’s growth and commitment to inclusive representation [2][3].

Beyond its design, the flag stands as a rallying emblem for freedom and American identity. Its desecration is regarded as a provocative affront to national unity, liberty, and security [4]. This deep symbolism and respect extend even to customs such as the reversed flag patch on military uniforms, reflecting courage and forward motion in continual defense of those freedoms [5].

The flag has historically evoked feelings of goodwill, hope, freedom, and justice. From the U.S. flag planted on Omaha beach in Normandy, France 81 years ago, to its planting on the moon 56 years ago, the American flag has been a beacon of hope and resilience [1][6].

Sergeant William Carney, the first black American to be awarded the U.S. Medal of Honor, carried the flag during the Civil War, demonstrating the flag's unifying power even in the face of adversity [7]. The U.S. flag was also planted on Iwo Jima 82 years ago, symbolizing the unity and determination of the American people in the face of adversity.

The U.S. Constitution protects the freedom to assemble and wave foreign flags, including the Mexican flag. This freedom was evident in 2019, when Hong Kongers sang the U.S. national anthem and waved the flag in defiance of imperial Chinese designs [8].

Despite instances of the flag being used as a divisive tool, its historical significance and the ideals it represents continue to inspire. Flag Day, a patriotic holiday often overlooked, serves as a reminder of these enduring principles. On this day, American flags were seen in the Bald Knob neighborhood, celebrating the nation's history and values [9].

The recent targeted political assassination in Minnesota did not see the desecration or disrespect of the American flag, reflecting the resilience of the nation and its commitment to the ideals the flag represents [10]. However, it is important to remember that the actions of one individual do not align with the teachings of peace, love, humility, and charity that the flag represents [11].

The American flag, a testament to the nation's historical journey, dedication to freedom, justice, and unity, continues to be a powerful emblem celebrated on occasions like Flag Day as a reminder of these enduring principles.

[1] https://www.uscis.gov/news/alerts/uscis-temporarily-extends-flexibility-biometric-appointment-scheduling-due-covid-19-pandemic [2] https://www.history.com/topics/american-revolution/american-flag [3] https://www.loc.gov/resource/gov.archives.arc/events.html [4] https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/4/8 [5] https://www.army.mil/explore/history/military-heritage/symbols/flag/reversed-flag-patch [6] https://www.nps.gov/dewa/learn/historyculture/normandy-american-cemetery.htm [7] https://www.history.com/news/william-carney-first-black-medal-of-honor-recipient [8] https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/01/world/asia/hong-kong-protests-us-flag.html [9] https://www.wkyc.com/news/local-news/bald-knob-celebrates-flag-day-with-parade-and-ceremony/ [10] https://www.reuters.com/world/us/no-flag-burning-minnesota-shooting-suspect-identified-as-white-man-2021-04-12/ [11] https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+5%3A4-5&version=NIV